Bed Stretch for Back Pain

I recommend that my patients with lower back pain perform the following stretch as soon as they wake up. While lying supine in bed, flex one knee and bring it to the chest; use both hands to hold the thigh as close to the chest as possible for 10 to 15 seconds, then repeat on the other side. Many patients have told me that this practice significantly ameliorates morning lower back stiffness.

- Terry Stone, PA-C
   Chesapeake, Va